In India’s evolving motorcycle market, where style meets substance and brand value battles real-world performance, two nameplates stand apart for very different reasons — Harley-Davidson X 350 and Yamaha R15M.
One flaunts a premium international legacy, while the other is a tried-and-tested hero among young Indian riders. As both compete in a similar price bracket, the comparison becomes more than just about looks or speed — it’s about value, purpose, and riding identity.
Harley-Davidson X 350 – Entry-Level Cruiser with a Global Tag
Harley-Davidson’s X 350 is an attempt to reach younger, budget-conscious riders who want a slice of the Harley experience. Developed in partnership with QJMotor (China), the X 350 carries Harley’s traditional cruiser aesthetic but is powered by a 353cc parallel-twin engine producing around 36 bhp and 31 Nm of torque.
The X 350 is not your typical Harley in terms of loud exhausts or heavyweight road presence. Instead, it aims to provide an urban cruiser vibe with modern agility. Its upright riding position, 6-speed gearbox, and relatively friendly ergonomics make it appealing to newer riders. However, its 195 kg kerb weight still reflects a bit of Harley’s heavy-road DNA.
Yamaha R15M – The Sharp, Proven Performer
On the other side, we have the Yamaha R15M, a fully-faired 155cc sports bike that needs no introduction in India. With its liquid-cooled VVA engine producing around 18.4 PS and 14.2 Nm, the R15M is celebrated for its razor-sharp handling, track-inspired design, and proven reliability.
It’s much lighter at around 142 kg, and that directly translates to nimble performance on city roads and winding corners. The R15M comes packed with features like assist and slipper clutch, dual-channel ABS, traction control, and even quickshifter on the M variant — tech that’s often seen on bigger bikes.
Design and Road Presence
The Harley X 350 looks bold and muscular with its round headlamp, flat tank, and wide handlebars. It certainly gives off an international cruiser charm. Meanwhile, the R15M is aggressive and sporty, mimicking Yamaha’s superbike DNA with sharp fairings and an aerodynamic stance.
While the Harley might draw stares at a signal, the Yamaha turns heads at speed.
Comfort and Everyday Usability
Comfort-wise, the X 350 wins for relaxed ergonomics and wider seating, ideal for long weekend rides or laid-back cruising. The R15M, though sportier, isn’t exactly uncomfortable, but its aggressive posture isn’t the best for everyday commutes, especially in traffic.
That said, the R15M excels in fuel efficiency and maneuverability — key aspects for city riders.
Features and Technology
The Harley X 350 sticks to basics with a simple LCD display, standard ABS, and traditional switchgear. Yamaha, in contrast, throws in Bluetooth connectivity, ride telemetry, LED lighting, and a much more premium digital console.
In terms of features for the price, the R15M offers significantly more.
Pricing and Value
Both bikes are priced close to the ₹3.3–3.5 lakh mark (ex-showroom), which puts them squarely in the entry-level premium segment. For buyers prioritizing the brand name and cruiser style, Harley-Davidson X 350 may appeal as a status symbol. But those seeking high-performance, reliability, and tech-loaded packages, the Yamaha R15M is hard to beat.
Also Read:- Harley-Davidson Low Rider S Review Surfaces Online – Bikers Praise Torque & Ride Feel
Final Thoughts – Which One Should You Choose?
The Harley-Davidson X 350 is for those who value global branding and want a cruiser-style motorcycle with entry-level accessibility. It’s about image and lifestyle more than lap times.
The Yamaha R15M, however, continues to be a performance-first machine that’s become a favorite among sportbike fans, college students, and even track day beginners in India. It may be less powerful on paper, but its tech, weight, and ride dynamics make it a true performer.
In the end, it comes down to this — Do you want a badge that speaks volumes or a machine that delivers every day?
